After the Covid lay-off, REO Speedwagon played Cedar Rapids at the McGrath Amphitheater. If you went there to see REO play pop music off “Hi Infidelity”, they played a few of the hits. However, from the opening song, it was clear that REO 2021 decided to remind everyone that they are a rock n roll band. They blistered their way through songs off “REO Two” and “You get what you play for”, "Nine Lives, and "Tune a Piano". They sounded great and had a hard edged sound to them. Guitar solos had a cutting, almost metal sound. Drums and keyboards were crisp. The venue was packed and everybody rocked. Opening act “Head East” deserves a mention. They opened with “Raise a Little Hell”, the hit from “Trooper” and set the tone for the night. The blasted their way through their harder material as well. Excellent show, from guys who know how to put on a rock n roll concert.

Wow, what a show. When we bought the tickets, we were worried about the weather, but it was a fantastic night on the Cedar River. Tip of the hat to opening act Head East. They set the tone for the night by opening with the great "Trooper" tune "Raise a little Hell." They rocked through their set and the crowd sang with their cuts like "Jefftown Creek" and ""Never Been any reason." After a quick change, REO came out. They played some of their hits off "Hi Infidelity", but Kevin Cronin said that the COVID shut down sent them Back to their early days. I think REO decided to remind people that they were a rock and roll band. and played songs off "REO Two" and their 70's albums, complete with great guitar solos. REO played with an edge to their music. "Like You do, "Son of a Poor Man", and "Keep pushing On" rocked the crowd. I was surprised they played "Golden Country" in these politically sensitive times, but they made it work. Also credit the sound engineers, both bands sounded great.

REO Speedwagon sounded and looked great. Their songs were played exactly as I remember them. Kevin Cronin's voice and all the others sounded SUPER! Kevin looked healthy, sounded GREAT, and interacted nicely, by recalling some past memories playing in Kansas City (between songs). Got to see Kevin play on the guitar and the piano. Just so glad his voice is still clear and great!

Me, my wife, and a close friend saw REO at The Celebrity in Phoenix and we had an awesome time! The band sounded tight and energetic. The lead singer was entertaining with short stories about the songs they wrote. I especially liked the story about a band mate’s divorce and the song they wrote about it. Vocals sounded spot on. Best concert I’ve been to in awhile.

For a guy who admits to being 71 years old, I was very impressed with the vocal chops. Kevin seemed to get better throughout the evening's performance. It's just not human! With that being said, the other musicians were solid. They all delivered a great, robust perfomance. The 70's and 80's came back to life at this show. I will say that they were loud and I am very glad I brough ear plugs with me.

Wow! Saw them in 1982 & took my son in 2022! He needed his 1st concert to be a REAL concert the way a show is supposed to be. He LOVED it as much as I did! Our seats were perfect, the band was fantastic & the crowd was crazy!! After the show we ate at The Chop House on Broadway singing "Tough Guys" all the way there!!! Great mother/son memories were made. Keep the Fire Burning!!!!